With the Knicks’ big-man situation in dire straights, the Knicks are close to signing veteran journeyman power forward James Singleton, according to a person familiar with the situation. The Knicks would have to release a player to open up a roster spot and it is expected to be Kurt Thomas, who has a stress fracture in his foot and is a longshot to return this season.

The Knicks like the 6-foot-8 Singleton’s ability to rebound and step away from the hoop for mid-range jumpers. Singleton, 31, was cut earlier in the season by the Wizards and went back to play in China. He played 12 games for Washington last season and shot 54 percent.

Thomas did not travel with the team to Chicago.

The Knicks have six traditional big men and all are injured — with Kenyon Martin’s “severe’’ ankle sprain suffered on Tuesday likely to keep him out the rest of the regular season.